Anjana Rajendran is a Master’s student in Neuroscience under the supervision of Dr. Lara Boyd in the Brain Behaviour Lab. We caught up with Anjana to learn more about her research interests and her experience as a graduate student.
What is your thesis project on?
My thesis project uses transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, to probe motor function in stroke survivors. This initiative marks a first step towards tailoring rehabilitation strategies and deepening our understanding of post-stroke brain recovery. Additionally, our lab is actively involved in investigating different TMS paradigms and the impact of exercise on implicit motor learning among stroke survivors. I feel privileged to contribute to these significant projects during my master’s journey, fostering invaluable research experience along the way.
What is your educational background?
I completed my undergraduate studies at UBC in 2020, earning a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience with a minor in English Literature. In my undergrad, I had the opportunity to engage with various kinds of research spanning spinal cord recovery in mice, cognitive psychology, and vaccine trials. This diverse exposure ultimately steered me towards the intersection of clinical neuroscience and rehabilitation, leading me to the Brain-Behavior Lab. Exploring the dynamics of rehabilitation, neuroscience, and motor learning within clinical populations has proven to be immensely fulfilling.
What kind of research does your lab do?
At the Brain Behaviour Lab, we use a multifaceted approach to understand the brain. By integrating motor and cognitive testing alongside neural imaging techniques, we can better understand the mechanisms underlying brain recovery post-injury, like stroke, and further our knowledge about neurobiology and how it changes, especially in the context of motor learning.
What do you like to do outside of research?
Beyond my academic pursuits, I try to engage in student life initiatives. I am an executive member of the Neuroscience Trainee Association, serve as a councillor for the Graduate Student Society, and participate in the EDI committee for the neuroscience program. Through these teams, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with so many incredible graduate students and learning so much about leadership at UBC both within and outside of my program. I wholeheartedly encourage fellow grad students to engage in initiatives that they’re passionate about—our voices hold immeasurable power.
